Spirited election cocktails at Las Canarias

If you don’t already have plans to watch the Election returns tonight, Omni La Mansión del Rio will feature a themed menu to keep guests in the spirit. From the Election Nigh Returns menu (cocktails cost $7-$10):

Mudslinging Mudslide – A creamy combination of Belvedere vodka, Baileys and Kahlua served with a shot of espresso.

Red Rush – A martini mixed with Belvedere vodka, pomegranate and grapefruit juices and a “conservative” splash of Grand Marnier.

Blue Crush – Blueberry lemonade refresher made for the adult voter with a “liberal” pour of Belvedere vodka, a splash of lavender and soda.

The Thin Margin – A skinny cocktail made with Belvedere Lemon Tea vodka, fresh mint and a splash of soda – less than 200 calories.

Hail To The Chief! – Sparkling champagne cocktail made with Chandon Brut, St. Germain Elderflower liqueur and a dash of Belvedere vodka.

Honoring El Curro

Speaking of spirits at Las Canarias, last Sunday’s Día De Los Muertos brunch celebrated the legacy of the late flamenco guitarist, Willie “El Curro” Champion. His family was seated in front of where El Curro would play every Sunday for 30 years.

In a touching moment, his oldest daughter, Chayito Champion, thanked guests for coming and Las Canarias for allowing her father to do what he loved for so many years.

Chayito performed a couple of songs with Christopher Arispe, who was an apprentice of El Curro for three years (see video below). She told the story of how her father sent Chris in his place when he became too sick to play, “only for two weeks.” Willie Champion passed away after those two weeks. Arispe later auditioned and was selected to fill the big shoes left by El Curro.

A portion of the brunch proceeds will be donated to the Teresa Champion Dance Academy.